Last spring was a fantastic ride along the banks of the scenic Illinois River. The weather was perfect and there were over 100 riders attending the event.
This Harley Davidson has a cool retro Army-green paint job.I had hoped my bike would be the oldest at the rally, but this old BMW had me beat.The route consisted of smooth gravel roads as well as a bit of pavement and a few more challenging trails.The first evening we rode into Tahlequa to see some of the site.The first evening we stopped at several Tahleqhah native American historical sites.My yellow DRZ was all ready to go.These Husky’s are getting more and more popular as an adventure bike.Lots of people camped at the 2023 spring GOAT ride, including myself.I sure like these Indian Scount motorcycles. Not sure I would want to beat one up in the dirt.A local stopped by to play his guitar and provide background music for camp.Adventure bikes don’t have to be giant behemoths. I published a story once about a guy who rode his Honda Moped like this from Austraila to England. What an adventure.These Honda’s are becoming quite popular.Several Harley Davidson adventure bikes were at the rally. They are sure are pretty, but in my opinion they sure are heavy.We had a great bonfire in camp on Saturday night.Sitting around a campfire telling stories about past motorcycle rides is a great way to spend the evening.We even had a food truck for the weekend.Daniel Sawin found us a pretty cool place to camp for 2023.I brought a friend’s bike down in my trailer and I rode my 21-year old Suzuki on the ride.I sure like those Yamaha T-700 Tenere’s. Pretty bikes, especially the red ones.Moody’s Store north of Tahlequah was just down the dirt road from the campsite and was a great place for breakfast or dinner or gas.I think these Ducati Desert Sleds are the prettiest bikes at any rally.We had a great campsite for the 2023 GOAT rally.The route takes us along the east side of the scenic Illinois River, parallel to Highway 10 which is on the west side of the river.2023 GOAT ride in Tahlequah, Oklahoma.2023 GOAT ride in Tahlequah, Oklahoma.i always enjoy stopping and chatting with other riders when we take a break.One of the riders following me crashed his Yamaha TW-200 on an off-camber downhill turn. He tore his shoulder up pretty bad and was in a lot of pain. We had no cell phone service so I hit the button on my Garmin Montana 700 with InReach.No cell service, but about 15 minutes after I hit the SOS button on my Garmin Montana 700 with InReach, a local fireman showed up to help.Before to long we had an ambulance arrive and hauled the injured rider to the hospital. He later had major surgery to repair his shoulder.Glad he had a good helmet.We stopped at Bathtub Rocks and saw some frogs mating. One of our group was a high school biology teacher so he gave us all the skinny on how frogs mate.The view from my Suzuki DRZ-400.Most of the ride was dirt, but we did hit a few sections of pavement.Water crossings are usually fun as long as they are no overly treacherous.2023 GOAT ride in Tahlequah, Oklahoma.Stagecoach Road proved to be muddy and slippery. We had several riders get stuck on this section of trail.2023 GOAT ride in Tahlequah, Oklahoma.The big BMW GS made it just fine.Honda CRF-300 Rally bikes make excellent adventure bikes. I would want a bit more power myself.Slick tires on slick mud means not much traction.We made a stop at Nichols Preserve on the east side of the Illinois River.America.Playing on a one-wheeler before the ride.
About the GOAT
The Green Country Oklahoma Adventure Tour (GOAT) is a thrilling backcountry adventure route that spans approximately 458 miles through the rolling foothills of Northeast Oklahoma. If you’re up for an exciting ride, here’s what you need to know about the GOAT:
Terrain and Highlights:
The route takes you through fast gravel roads, twisty asphalt, and numerous water crossings—perfect for keeping cool in the sweltering Oklahoma heat.
Expect loose gravel, large rocks, mud, and steep hills along the way.
The GOAT meanders through the Cherokee Nation, offering historical sites and scenic views.
Notable points of interest include the home and museum of the famous Cherokee Indian Sequoyah, a motorcycle museum, and historical schoolhouses.
You’ll find plenty of swimming holes and off-road exploration opportunities.
Wildlife sightings are common as the route passes through the JT Nickel Preserve, Spavinaw Hills Wildlife Management Area, and the Cherokee State Game Refuge.
Logistics:
Duration: The GOAT can be completed in 2 to 5 days.
Fuel: Fuel is readily available in nearly every town along the route.
Water: Plan to bring more water than you anticipate needing—aim for at least one gallon per person per day.
Permits: No permits are required.
Considerations:
Extreme Heat: Traveling during June to August can be uncomfortable due to temperatures exceeding 100°F with high humidity levels (60% to 70%).
Cell Service: Be aware that cell service is non-existent along much of the route, and medical services may be several hours away in certain locations.
Whether you’re a seasoned rider or a newcomer, the GOAT offers a fantastic opportunity to explore the backcountry without feeling overwhelmed by extreme remoteness. So saddle up, embrace the adventure, and enjoy the scenic beauty of Green Country!
Loaded up my Suzuki DRZ-400 for an overnight camping trip. I have had this motorcycle for 22 years and it still runs strong and does exactly what I want it to do. I have my camping gear pretty well sorted now after all these years.
